Sarah Haskett: At root of depression: Rejection

Regarding “Repent for gay lifestyle” (Letters, July 16): The writer says those “participating” in a gay lifestyle are more likely to abuse drugs/alcohol and attempt suicide. However, she fails to acknowledge that intolerance and discrimination from family and community create these statistics. The CDC states that LGBT youth who are rejected by their families are eight times more likely to attempt suicide; six times more likely to be depressed, and three times more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol. So, statistically, it is the castigation by family members and the community that affect these rates, not homosexuality itself. In essence, those who are dehumanized through rejection, bullying and violence are at greater risk for depression and harmful behavior.

As stated in Luke 6:42, “How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own?” Whether or not one views homosexuality as a choice, it is highly evident that the choice to shun such individuals is what creates the statistics cited by the letter writer as endemic to homosexuality. Tolerance can save lives.

Sarah Haskett, Modesto

Never miss a local story.

Sign up today for unlimited digital access to our website, apps, the digital newspaper and more.